Navy leadership to review operational situation and preparedness in IOR | India News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Top naval commanders will begin a four-day conference on Tuesday to discuss the security situation and operational preparedness in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) in view of increasing Chinese incursions in the region, the threat from pirates and Houthi rebels and the current situation in Bangladesh.
The Naval Commanders’ Conference, chaired by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, will deliberate on “key strategic, operational and administrative issues” against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics, regional challenges and “complexities” in the maritime safety situation in West Asia, agents reported Monday.
Besides the regular presence of Chinese warships and “spy ships” in the IOR, such as the destroyer Hefei and the amphibious warships Wuzhishan and Qilianshan that docked in Colombo last month, the growing maritime collusion between Beijing and Islamabad beyond the land borders poses a major strategic challenge for India.
China is helping Pakistan build a strong navy, with four Type 054A/P multi-purpose frigates delivered and eight Yuan-class diesel-electric submarines in the works.
The Indian Naval Commanders will also review the modernisation plans, operational, logistical, personnel development, training and administrative activities of the past six months and the future key milestones to be achieved to protect maritime interests.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will address the conference on issues related to national security and aspirations. In addition, the Chief of Defence Staff, Army High Command and IAF Commanders will also hold talks with the Commanders to promote cooperation between the three branches of the armed forces across the conflict spectrum and to advance the impending establishment of integrated theatre commands.
“The Navy has responded with strength and determination to the emerging threat of drones and missiles that jeopardise the security of commerce, demonstrating its capabilities as the preferred security responder in the IOR,” an officer said.
“In view of the Navy’s commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests in the region, the conference will witness a comprehensive review of operational readiness, including discussions on capability enhancement plan, promoting a national vision of indigenisation, self-reliance and realising the combat power of maritime forces,” he added.